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Fairfax Water, which supplies most Prince William Water drinking water, disinfects with ozone and chloramines. Some of our western Prince William clients get drinking water from Manassas, which disinfects using chloramines. In spring, Prince William Water's water providers clean drinking water with free chlorine, a stronger disinfectant, to prevent bacteria from developing resistances.

Free chlorine and chloramines react with organic materials like decaying plant material in water to generate disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA and VDH regulate DBPs, Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM) and Haloacetic Acids (HAA5).  

TTHM and HAA5 sample results in Prince William Water's distribution system are regularly below the EPA standard, which Virginia Department of Health enforces.  

Certain cancers have been linked to chronic DBP exposure. The World Health Organization estimates that aquatic microorganisms pose 10,000 to 1 million times the risk of cancer from DBPs. Chloramines produce less DBPs than free chlorine because their chemical nature makes them less reactive to organic materials.  

To protect public health, the EPA creates national regulations. These drinking water standards are enforced by VDH in Virginia. Prince William Water sends VDH its water quality test findings monthly and annually to ensure the utility fulfills federal and state drinking water regulations. If a water quality violation occurs, Prince William Water must notify VDH and its customers immediately and work with VDH to correct it.

Bring tap water to a full rolling boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using.

Tap water can be boiled in the microwave in a microwave-safe container, provided that the water reaches a full rolling boil for one minute. Place a microwave-safe utensil in the container to keep the water from superheating (heating above the boiling point without forming steam or bubbles).

Yes. Boil all tap water you use for making coffee, tea, mixed drinks or any beverage made with water. In addition, boil all tap water used for making ice for consumption. 

Yes. Only use boiled tap water or bottled water for mixing formula for your baby. Make sure that the water is entirely cooled before giving it to your baby.

Yes. Boil all tap water you use for washing raw vegetables.

All tap water used in cooking must first be boiled for one minute unless the cooking process involves boiling for one minute or more.

No. A spoonful of Clorox bleach in a sink full of tap water should treat dishwashing water. Rinsing water should also contain bleach. Air-dry dishes and utensils before using or use an electric dishwasher with its heating elements on to wash dishes. After washing in an electric dishwasher, rinse dishes in water with a spoonful of bleach and air-dry before reuse.